Feed The Needy support continues to be high after 25 years

November 27, 2014 at 9:42 PM CST - Updated July 21 at 3:40 AM

HARRISON COUNTY, MS (WLOX) - Now in its 25th year, organizers said the success of Harrison County's Feed the Needy program is built on so many people being willing to help their neighbors. Thursday, hundreds of volunteers helped provide Thanksgiving meals to nearly 3,000 people. Organizers said without the community's support, none of that would be possible.

Volunteers came with relatives and friends to help dish up and deliver hot Thanksgiving meals to those in need.

"I wanted me and my family to participate in this so we could serve our community, because we love the Lord and want to show His love to other people," said Melanie Davis.

Brandon Mazur said, "I wanted to help the people that don't have stuff to eat at home and don't have the money to buy it."

Organizers said when Feed the Needy started a quarter of a century ago, 75 people received hot holiday meals. This Thanksgiving the number topped 2,800. Organizers said it's all about people working together for the common good.

"It's a way for everybody to get together, no matter where they're from, age, race, sex, everybody gets along and they talk and communicate here," said Sheriff Melvin Brisolara. "It makes them all feel good that they're out here doing something for the community."

Volunteers said seeing the level of support makes them proud to call South Mississippi home.

"This is what South Mississippi is all about. The giving and the caring and standing up for each other and sharing," said Jan Dauro. "We wanted to show the community how much effort it takes to put it together and we all do a great job here. It's really fantastic."

Dauro's friend, Jody Viebrock said, "It was so overwhelming when we pulled up. I'm like, wow, what a turnout. How wonderful. I did it for Christmas and I was so impressed. The parents that brought their children and it was so heartwarming."

Organizers said in 25 years they've served 80,000 meals on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

RNN Staff

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